Making Your Own Video!

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Want to learn how to make your own videos? The information on this page can really help. Here you can learn the same kind of tips and tricks that the pros use.First we will learn about the three parts of making (producing) a video :
We divide video production up into three parts:
  • planning the video- (pre-production). This is where you write your scripts, work on sets, practice parts, etc.
  • Shooting the video- (production)-capturing the video and audio
  • Editing the video (post-production.
Pre-Production
Some of the things you do during this step are to:
Decide on the Audience and Purpose for your production:
Purpose

happy_moon-1.jpg
happy_moon-1.jpg

The purpose is the reason for making your video. Videos can have several purposes:* Persuade (like a commercial)
  • Inform/ Teach (like the news)
  • Entertain/ Engage (like a drama or comedy)
  • Express a point of view (like an editorial)
Audience
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ketmmpd_audience.jpg

The audience refers to the people you want to watch your video. When planning your video keep in mind what your audience's wants and needs are. To do this think about the following questions:* How old are they?
  • Where do they come from (their background)?
  • Why would they want to watch this video?
Planning
Remember that video is a visual (picture) way of telling a story so when planning it, think in shots and scenes. A storyboard is a "comic strip" version of your story where you actually draw the shots you want to see. This lets you "see" your video before you shoot it. Below is a link to a blank script/storyboard sheet you can print out and use in planning your production.
Script/Storyboard Sheet

Like any piece of writing your script may go through several re-writes. You want your finished script to be clear and easy-to-read so all of your crew members will know what the plan is.
Here is an example of a first draft of this storyboard sheet filled out. You don't have to be an artist to create one of these, you just want to get your idea across.
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transy_store_costumes.jpg

Collect/ create all costumes, props and materialsWhether you are going to shoot video in your schoolyard or in another part of the state, you can save some time by making a checklist of all the things you will need while you are out collecting your raw photos, videos, and audio (sound). Of course you will want to list the equipment you will need, but also if you are planning to use any kinds of props, costumes, or other materials during any of your scenes, you have to plan in advance to make sure you take them with you.
Know Your EquipmentBefore starting to shoot your video, it pays to learn how to use your camera, tripod and other equipment. Check out the diagram of a typical camera shown here.Just like actors and news anchor people practice their lines in front of the camera, if you are the photographer, you need to practice the moves you will make with the camera during the production. This is called blocking your shots.
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To see more video production tips go to page two by clicking here: VideoMaker Kid's Page 2